I was hearing someone talk about advent the other day, specifically about the Season of Advent, and it was described as the most Quakerly of seasons, with its quietly growing and illuminated way in the form of candles, with a slowly developing story that lights the way within and without – with a spiritual light, what was most important was that it has no relation to the brash bright lights and tinny music in the shops.
It was described as a month of patient waiting and developing, a time of expectations, hopeful growth, which is the very thing in our world needs at the moment.
During my early life, while working in a Garden Centre near here, (before I became an acupuncturist) I experience Christmas in a few different forms, which I separated out into defined terms – the bright light, plastic, consumer side of Christmas, I named Xmas. The traditional family and friends time which includes the excitement of childhood joy as a completely separate entity I call Christmas. And finally Christmas cheers for all, the Christmas that brought the old Christmas carols which sometimes carry relevant and positive messsges of hope.
Which ever element of Christmas you Enjoy, from food to the family, enjoy the gentle growth of the Advent season whatever it means to you.
Iwood Health, Wrington 